Remembering the Sir of Sirs: former Hong Kong justice chief recalls late political veteran Chung Sze-yuen’s insight and integrity

The death of Chung Sze-yuen, the “godfather of Hong Kong politics”, on November 14 was mourned by figures across the political spectrum. Former secretary for justice Wong Yan-lung wrote to the Post to share his memories of Chung, a close friend of his father-in-law’s, recalling his first impressions of the veteran politician and how the heavyweight still had Hong Kong affairs in his heart during his final years.

In memory of Sir Chung Sze-yuen, GBM, CBE, JP

I had the honour of being the emcee of Sir SY’s birthday celebrations for about 10 years, including his last and 101st birthday party on November 3, 2018 hosted by Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor at Government House at her personal expense.

This was my introduction:

“Someone has said, ‘It is not the years in your life but the life in your years that counts.” But when you are already more than a centenarian, and in most of your 100 years of life you have been in the forefront of historic moments of Hong Kong, pioneering in different fields with outstanding achievements and contributions, your birthday will not be a private affair, but a cause for celebration for the entire community.”

Likewise, Sir SY’s passing is not a matter of private affair. It is an occasion of remembrance by the people of Hong Kong, especially those who have sailed through the 1997 transition with him.